If you’ve reached double figures and still not been to a football match, you’re probably wondering where to start. If your partner has decided to take you along to the next NFL game, you’d better start getting ready. Attending football games in the US is a national pastime and something the whole family gets involved in. If you’re wondering what to wear, the most important item will be your team colors. If you’re not sure which team to support, then it’s best to follow the lead of your partner. At least until you can decide on a team for yourself.

College, Pre-Season, or Playoffs?

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The complete NFL novice who just wants to experience a game will be better off attending a college game. You get the full experience that includes live performances, passion and loyal followers, without having to worry about getting tickets. If you want to see the pros in action, you can watch pre-season games from August to early September. Playoffs can be seen from early September to early February, culminating in the world famous Super Bowl. Buy your tickets from an NFL ticket sales site.

Traveling to the Game

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Football games are held in huge stadiums which are often located a fair distance from central areas. For example, the AT & T Stadium is located between Dallas and Fort Worth. A 30-minute drive from both of them. This means that many people choose to drive to these events because public transport is a little patchy.

The parking lots of football stadiums have become the location for something called a tailgate party. Originally, they were casual affairs, but have grown into professional-style party setups. Many people choose to throw tailgate parties rather than watch the actual game.

If you’re not driving but still want to experience the thrill of a tailgate party, it’s possible to buy tickets to an official gathering. You get to mingle with passionate fans, enjoy a pre-game meal and drink and browse the merchant tents. It’s definitely a great way to get into the spirit of things.

What to Wear to a Tailgate Party

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The only essential item is something with the team colors. If you don’t wear team colors, you’re going to be the odd one out. Even if you just choose a cap, it will show you’re getting into the spirit of things.

If you want to carry a bag with you, then be aware that restrictions are now in place. The only types of bag permitted into an NFL stadium are clutch-style bags, clear plastic tote bags up to 12x6x12 inches and one-gallon plastic freezer bags. There’s certainly very little wiggle room for fashionable accessories.

From the moment you buy your ticket, through to making plans, traveling to the stadium, experiencing a tailgate party and then the thrill of the game, there’s nothing quite like a football game to stir the national spirit and pride. It doesn’t really matter what you wear as long as it involves team colors.